Definition: Then came Shemaiah the prophet to Rehoboam, and [to] the princes of Judah, that were gathered together to Jerusalem because of Shishak, and said unto them, Thus saith the LORD, Ye have forsaken me, and therefore have I also left you in the hand of Shishak.
Explanation: Okay, let’s break down this verse from 2 Chronicles 12:5. It’s a really important and somewhat dramatic passage about leadership and disobedience. Here’s what it means in simpler terms: The Basic Story: Shemaiah is the Messenger: Shemaiah was a prophet – someone who speaks for God, often through messages. He traveled to Rehoboam, the king of Judah, and told him something very serious. The Princes are Gathering: Rehoboam’s advisors were gathered in Jerusalem because of a problem called “Shishak.” This is a key point – there was a disagreement or conflict happening within the kingdom. The Prophet's Warning: Shemaiah said, "The LORD has spoken." He then told Rehoboam that the people had disobeyed him . He’s pointing out that they weren’t following God’s guidance and were choosing to go in a different direction. What Does It Mean? Forsaken: The word “forsaken” means abandoned or left behind. Shemaiah is saying the people left God's instructions. Left in the Hand of Shishak: This is a crucial part. Shishak was a king who was vying for the throne and causing problems. Shemaiah’s warning suggests that Shishak was exploiting the situation and leading Judah down a path that God disapproved of. The Tone & Significance: This verse has a strong, serious tone. It's not just about a disagreement; it’s a condemnation of disobedience and potentially a crisis for the kingdom. It highlights that leaders must listen to God’s guidance and not stray from his plan. In short, this verse is a warning about disobeying God’s leadership and the consequences of choosing the wrong path. --- Do you want me to: Explain any specific part in more detail? Provide context about the time period when this verse was written? Compare it to other Bible stories with similar themes (like idolatry)?